The Colts have begun preparing for Sunday's game with a new quarterback, a new defensive coordinator, and an old rival. Players returned to the Colts complex for practice Wednesday, a day after the team announced the firing of Defensive Coordinator Larry Coyer.
Defensive end Dwight Freeney says he is surprised only that the Colts made a move in midseason.
"You‘re 0-11; things happen," he says. "I mean, just look at it historically on every team that‘s been 0-11 or whatever. Not having a winning season, changes are made."
Coach Jim Caldwell would not take questions on Coyer‘s exit, but says he will not be expecting dramatic defensive improvements against New England on Sunday -- just signs that things are getting better.
The Colts have given up an NFL-worst 30 points per game.